Planning an adventure to explore Canada’s enchanting landscapes and dynamic culture? Understanding the requirements for a Canadian visa is crucial. Familiarizing yourself with these details ensures a smooth admission to this destination.
Don’t worry! This guide provides comprehensive information on obtaining your Canadian visa. Gain valuable insights for a seamless journey by reading further!
How to Get a Canadian Visa?
Before embarking on your journey abroad, it is crucial to obtain the necessary occupancy authorization. Canadian visa applications may be mandatory for individuals holding citizenship from certain countries. These include nationals from countries without visa exemption privileges or eTA arrangements, such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Albania, Taiwan, etc.
Conversely, residents of specific countries are permitted to stay in Canada for up to three months without a Canadian visa. Examples include EU member states, the US, Australia, etc. However, those eligible may need to apply for a Canadian visa if their stay exceeds three months.
Occupancy authorization categories range from temporary to permanent visas. You should apply for a visa that aligns with the purpose and duration of your visit. We recommend visiting the Canadian Ministry of Foreign Affairs site for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
What to Consider Before Getting a Canadian Visa?
After providing an overview of the permit, let’s consider a few factors before starting the solicitation process. Here are the key points:
1. Make Sure Your Country is on the List
The first step is to check if your country is on the list. As mentioned earlier, citizens of certain countries may need to apply for permission to stay, while others can visit without a permit.
Currently, 148 countries require authorization to enter this destination. Examples include Libya, Madagascar, and India. Citizens of these countries may apply for various types of permits for visiting, studying, working, or immigrating.
On the other hand, citizens from countries with visa exemptions need to obtain an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) to enter. Examples of these countries include Finland, France, New Zealand, and Norway. Note that an eTA is only required for air travel, not for land or sea travel.
The eTA is mandatory for citizens of exempt countries. However, it’s important to know that you do not need an eTA if you are traveling by land or sea.
It’s crucial to understand that the visa exemption allowing stays without a permit applies for a maximum of three months. If you plan to stay longer than three months, you will still need to obtain a permit.
2. Decide Your Purpose of Visit
The procedure below helps determine the required occupancy authorization based on your purpose for stopping by. Several available categories include:
Temporary Visas
Temporary visas allow stays for periods determined by authorities. They may be valid for single or multiple entries, typically up to six months. Some types include:
- Tourist visa
- Super visa
- Diplomatic and Official visa
- Give birth visa
- Organ donors visa
- Facilitation visa
- Student visa
- Temporary work visa
- Temporary residence permit
- Working holiday visa
Permanent Visas
Permanent visas offer the right to settle permanently. Types include:
- Immigrant Investor Program
- Startup Visa Program
- Quebec-Selected Skilled Worker Program
- Family-Sponsorship Program
- Live-in Caregiver Program
Express Entry Visas
This category enables global applicants to pursue immigration based on specific skills. Some available options include:
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Provincial Nomination Programs
- Canadian Experience Class
3. Visa Application Fees
Visa application fees vary depending on the type of authorization. Temporary permit fees range from CAD 7 or USD 5.5 to CAD 465 or USD 343. Permanent residence permit fees range from CAD 490 or USD 361.3 to CAD 1,540 or USD 1136. For detailed information, please refer to the official website.
4. Designated Airports
The following airports in this destination process immigration visa applications:
- Ontario Airport
- Vancouver Airport
- Montréal–Trudeau International Airport
- Calgary Airport
Applying for a Canadian Visa
After learning about the Canada visa requirements, let’s proceed with the procedures. Depending on your situation, you can apply either online or by paper.
Online Application
Here are the procedures:
- Determine your eligibility.
- Create an account on the official site.
- Gather the necessary paperwork:
- Passport.
- Travel itinerary.
- Proof of sufficient funds.
- Complete the Canada visa application form online.
- Pay the fees
- Upload required documents
- Submit your application
- Wait for processing
- Provide biometric information if required
- Await decision.
Via Embassy
To apply via the consulate, follow these procedures:
- Determine your eligibility.
- Gather the required paperwork, which is similar to the online application.
- Fill out the application form.
- Cover the expenses.
- Schedule an appointment with the embassy.
- Attend the appointment and submit your inquiry.
- Provide biometric data if necessary.
- Await processing.
- Collect your visa.
The manual for securing a Canadian visa is now complete. You now have all the essential information to proceed with your travel plans. Waste no time and book your flight as soon as possible! For convenient booking and exclusive deals, consider using Airpaz. Bon voyage!